Where Dr Deepa K. Tiku began her life speaks as much to her achievements and character as does the tremendous career she has had since and where she is now – a Partner at K&S Partners in Gurgaon, India, one of the country’s leading IP boutique firms, specializing in patents, traditional knowledge and biodiversity, plant varieties.
Let Deepa explain her unique and incredible life journey:
“I faced sudden displacement from my home back in time as a teenager because of terrorism and conflict in that part of the country. But I was determined not to let this pull me down.
“Instead, I focused on my education, working hard to give everything my best shot, with the help of my family, mentors and countless friends and colleagues.
“The lessons that I have learned over the years are many, but sincerity towards my work and being kind to people in need, stand out for me. I try and conduct myself by always remembering my roots while making a difference in any small way I can.”
Professional Background
- Dabur India Limited (1997-1999)
- Institute for Genomics & Integrative Biology (Council of Scientific & Industrial Research) (1999-2004)
- Remfry & Sagar (2004-2010)
- Global Institute of Intellectual Property (2010-2012)
- K&S Partners (2012 – present)
Education & Training
- Master’s in biotechnology (1996)
- Ph.D. (Biotechnology) (2004)
- Indian Patent Agent (2004)
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB) – Enrolment as advocate and Bar Council of India Certificate to Practice (2012)
Professional Satisfaction/Recent Client Challenge
Deepa says that her greatest satisfaction as an IP attorney is successfully securing and protecting my clients' IP rights, empowering them to innovate and and succeed in their business.
“I enjoy working on complex patent cases, especially defending my clients’ cases against various contentious proceedings.”
She cites a recent client challenge as one that was particularly satisfying:
“I recently defended a pre-grant patent opposition by a third-party for a US-based client primarily on the issue of wrongful obtainment of an antibody-based invention. The commercial stakes for the client were high.
“This was a very interesting case for me, as it involved evaluating lab records, preparing technical evidence, counterevidence, expert declarations and a day-long interparte oral hearing proceeding.”
Adding Value to Clients
Deepa joined K&S Partners in 2012. The firm was founded in 1994 as a four-member IP boutique Firm and has grown to more than 150 professionals in an overall team of 350 across seven locations.
Deepa explains the value that the firm brings to clients that has helped build such spectacular growth:
“K&S has been a pioneer in building a technology-based patent practice in India. Our dedicated resources include specialists across all fields of technology working with four practice domains of biotech & biosciences, pharma & chemistry, mechanical engineering & designs, and computers and electronics.
“We serve our clients across all segments rendered by the K&S Patents team include freedom to operate, invalidity opinions, conducting prior art searches, due diligence, drafting, filing, and prosecution of patent applications, patent litigation, and IP licensing agreements.
“The team is equipped to handle complex patent litigation and all contentious matters including oppositions, invalidity actions, revocations, opinions regarding validity, and infringement. Our lifesciences partners also advise in the area of Traditional Knowledge and Biodiversity related aspects.”
Best Practice to Share with FICPI Members
The specific best practice from K&S that Deepa shares with her colleagues in the FICPI global network focuses on the firm’s unique governance framework.
“K&S Partners is one of the only IP Firms in India with an institutional governance framework to last beyond the founders.
“Our unique partnership model is of its only kind in India with a meritocratic approach and the existing partners, ceding their equity to induct new partners.
“The partners have a retirement age and there is a no-family rule. The firm has a written constitution laying down the fundamental principles, values, code of conduct, governance structure, and other key elements.
“This guides each member of the firm to live the firm’s 4 values, build a leadership pipeline for the future and adopt best practices to provide the best services to the clients.”
The Future for Independent IP Attorneys
Like many other FICPI members, Deepa is closely watching how Artificial Intelligence (AI) impacts the profession:
“Undoubtedly, AI, particularly Generative AI, is likely to change the way an independent IP attorney has been practicing. Some low value services could be easily commoditized, so attorneys must continuously upskill themselves to provide high-value services to their clients.”
Value of FICPI Membership
Deepa joined FICPI in 2016 and serves on the work and study committee, CET, in particular as a reporter on CET 5, which focuses on pharma and biotechnology.
“I enjoy attending FICPI meetings and events as it is a great opportunity to meet with global patent attorneys and learn about different jurisdictional issues.
“The committee work enables us to contribute to topics which are of interest to the entire IP community across countries and IP Offices.
“The networking events set in beautiful locations are very useful and very enjoyable.”
Final Word – Outside of Work
Outside of work, it’s all about family for Deepa:
“I enjoy spending time with my family, especially my twin daughters. I love music, reading and cooking.”
